RECENTLY DIAGONESED

Hi, and welcome!

While I wish you didn't have need of a community like this one, I am glad you found us! Almost every member of this community has been where you are right now.

Being newly diagnosed can be an overwhelming time. And what I tell everyone who comes here with a new diagnosis is that whatever you are feeling is OK. If you feel mad or numb or confused or depressed or overwhelmed; that's ok. Let yourself feel how you need to and give yourself some time to process this news.

And looking up info online can be so helpful, but also scary, so proceed with caution.

I wanted to share some pieces written by our health leaders with tips for the newly diagnosed, as they have been there at one point. Here's one from health leader Stephanie -- https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/5-pieces-of-advice-for-the-newly-diagnosed. Also, Laura wrote a heartfelt letter for the newly diagnosed -- https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/a-letter-for-the-newly-diagnosed. If I had to boil down their advice for you, it would be this, "Don't panic. Find a community that understands, build a support system if you don't already have one. Find a knowledgeable doctor and don't be afraid to ask your doctor LOTS of questions if you need to. Remember that you can do this and you don't have to do it alone. Communities like this one are here for you."

Also, there are two great MS communities that have support groups and other kinds of support. The MSAA -- https://mymsaa.org/ and the NMSS -- https://www.nationalmssociety.org/. I would definitely check them out. NMSS has a great service called MS Navigator, where you can talk on the phone or online to an MS expert -- https://www.nationalmssociety.org/get-ms-support. It can be a great resource when you are feeling overwhelmed.

I hope this information is helpful for you and don't hesitate to reach out if you have further questions or concerns. We're happy to help in any way we can.

Best, Erin, Team Member.